Happy Two Week Birthday Keira!

It has been a rough week for our little girl, but each day she is a little stronger, a little bigger, and a little healthier than the day before.

Late last week we got word that Keira was sick. She wasn't breathing all that well on her own anymore and her chest x-rays were showing significant lung damage. Although blood tests and cultures were not showing signs of infection, the doctors decided to begin antibiotics to see if perhaps the very beginnings of infection were the cause of her decline. If the antibiotics did not work and her breathing struggles continued, Keira would be placed on a ventilator to breathe for her. Fortunately all prayers were answered and Keira had a remarkable turnaround by the weekend. Her breathing improved significantly and although her x-rays still show the same damaged lung tissue, today she is doing very well.

Keira had several tests this week that although intimidating for a parent to hear about, are pretty routine for a preemie. First was a brain ultrasound to check for bleeding on the brain. A possible brain bleed was found, but the doctors are assuring us that her type of bleed is common and will most likely be reabsorbed into her body. (Good news, I guess?) Keira also had an echocardiogram to check for a heart valve defect that is very common for a preemie. Her tests came back with no sign of heart or valve problems. (Definitely good news!) She received two blood transfusions for a low hemoglobin count and tolerated the transfusions just fine. (More good news!)

Keira began receiving breastmilk this week and has been tolerating it very well although her feedings are temporarily stopped due to her possible infection. She has gained quite a bit of weight and is now TWO POUNDS! Steve and I were very excited to hear that! I got to change Keira's teeny tiny little diaper and held her a few times this week although her Daddy is still awaiting his big chance! Her little head fits right into the palm of my hand. Friday night Keira opened her eyes for the first time. She made strong and steady eye contact with me while holding onto my pinky.